Date: February 2023
Amount: $67,738

Courage Kenny’s “Handiham” program (initially called the Handiham System) was founded in Rochester, MN. Its founder, Ned Carman W0ZSW, often provided treatment to clients with severe physical disabilities and visual impairments and realized that they often had few opportunities to leave their homes. He reasoned that amateur radio could become an accessible, popular hobby for them. Currently, Handiham stations are in operation in Woodbury, MN and Park Rapids, MN. For over 50 years, this program has played empowered individuals with disabilities to learn amateur radio and technology skills, earn their amateur radio licenses, and build community around the world. Participants have the opportunity to learn about ham radio and other technologies from their homes through online audio lectures, and digital cartridges.

This grant will fund Handihams to purchase code practice oscillators and handheld FM transcievers for participants and to hold an in-person, radio camp based out of a hotel. At the camp, participants will take part in hands-on activities that include antenna theory and construction, fox hunting, portable HF operation, VHF and UHF operation, digital modes, contesting,and SKYWARN.

Learn more at https://handiham.org.